Terrified families 'ran to safety' amid 'screaming and shouting' after a huge fight erupted during a Mother's Day dinner at a popular restaurant.
Police raced to Istanbul Grill, Culcheth on Sunday (March 27) after a brawl broke out at the Mother's Day-themed evening, Manchester Evening News reports.
Witnesses say they heard shouting and swearing before glasses were 'thrown and smashed' at the Warrington Road eatery, as families fled to the street with their crying youngsters.
There was a large police presence a the Turkish restaurant following the 'scary' ordeal, however most of those involved had taken off before Cheshire Police officers arrived.
Diners told the Manchester Evening News that the venue was full with families, including children and toddlers.
One pregnant woman, who asked to remain anonymous, explained that a large party had started fighting with the waiters before glasses started being thrown and smashed.
She said: "There was a large group of about 20 or 30 in the restaurant when a fight broke out.
"People were running to the exit screaming and shouting and glasses were being smashed. Two lads ran out from the back of the restaurant laughing, picking up glasses and throwing them saying 'come on then'.
"My partner, myself and my daughter ran to the exit. I am four months pregnant and there were lots of children and a few small toddlers and babies there too. Everyone was screaming and crying, it was horrid.
"It was very chaotic and crazy and no one knew what to do. The group of men were kicking the glass at the front of the restaurant and ran back in again shouting 'come on', 'fight us', along with plenty of volatile language.
"We left after the police arrived at around 7.15pm and luckily managed to get a table at another restaurant. Culcheth is a lovely place and Istanbul is a great restaurant. I am really saddened by tonight as it’s a day for mothers, not people spoiling it. It was really scary."
Enquiries are ongoing and witnesses are being urged to contact Cheshire Police with any information about the incident.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
